Oram ready for 'dream' Lombard Trophy appearance

Playing in the grand final of the Europe’s biggest pro-am event is a dream come true for Neil Oram, who is counting down the days until he competes in the Lombard Trophy finale.

Oram will be partnering PGA Professional Lee Scarbrow, who has coached Ryder Cup legend Ian Poulter, again for the 36-hole showdown in the Algarve where they will go head-to-head with 14 other clubs.

More than 700 clubs entered the popular PGA National Pro-Am Championship which reaches its climax at Pestana’s stunning Vila Sol Golf & Resort Hotel on the Algarve from September 21-22.

“It would be a dream come true if we were to win it,” said Biggleswade-based 12-handicapper Oram. “I’ve never really won anything in golf.

“My playing partner Lee was a full-time professional for a few years but I’ve never come close. Win or lose we’re just going to enjoy ourselves and do the best we can.”

The John O’Gaunt Golf Club duo clinched their spot in Portugal after winning their regional qualifier at Thetford Golf Club back in June thanks to a seven-under par 62, which also earned them £356.25.

“I won a monthly medal at John O’Gaunt and to my surprise winning that entered me to the pro-am with Lee. We went up to Thetford and played a qualifier which we won on countback over three other teams. Luck that I’m going, very grateful.

“On the day really I’ve got say the first nine holes I did the majority of scoring, then I dipped off and Lee seemed to take over. He got into his stride and scored very well.

“I’m really looking forward to the event. Both or ours wives are coming over with us so it’s going to be a great occasion.

“I’ve been playing a bit more and the lighter evenings have helped with that. In that respect this event has come at the right time. Whether that’s done me any good or not, that remains to be seen, but whatever happen we’ll give it our best and try to enjoy it.”